Trump and Republicans Criticize Bishop's Call for Mercy at National Prayer Service

President Donald Trump and Republicans strongly criticized Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s plea for “mercy” during a prayer service on Tuesday, deeming it inappropriate. However, Budde remains unfazed by the backlash.

During the service at Washington National Cathedral, with Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President Vance, and Second Lady Usha Vance in attendance, Budde urged the new administration to “have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.”

She highlighted concerns for immigrants, including undocumented ones, as well as LGBTQ individuals, saying they deserve compassion and protection.

Trump dismissed the service as “not too exciting,” later condemning Budde on Truth Social as a “Radical Left hardline Trump hater” who politicized her church. He described her remarks as “uninspiring” and demanded an apology from her and her church.

The sermon came after Trump signed controversial executive orders on transgender rights and immigration on his first day in office. One order directed the government to define sex strictly as male or female and barred transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports.

These actions sparked widespread backlash, with the Trevor Project reporting a significant increase in crisis hotline calls from LGBTQ youth.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt accused Budde of “weaponizing the pulpit,” calling her remarks “egregious.” Republican figures, including Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), criticized her for her comments on undocumented immigrants, while others like Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.) suggested she should be deported.

Conservative media personalities joined the attack, with Fox News’s Sean Hannity and Greg Gutfeld mocking Budde’s remarks and appearance. Budde, however, stood firm, stating that she would not apologize for advocating mercy for vulnerable groups.

She expressed disappointment in the divisive nature of the criticism, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding.

Despite receiving threats, Budde remains committed to her role, saying her sermon was intended to be respectful and universal, urging those in power to show mercy to the most vulnerable.